The defending champion Shi Yuqi had an opening round battle with Denmark’s Anders Antonsen, who is in incredible form. Coming off the back of a final in Germany and a big tournament win in the Indonesian Masters.

Nevertheless, Shi Yuqi was very composed and executed his game plan well. Speaking after the match about is performance, he says

-I think I played well today, and I restricted his speed in the match. As he plays really fast, it is important to stop him doing this.

In two games

The match finished in 2 games, 21-17, 21-16. With chances being missed by Antonsen in the second game to push for a decider. Commenting on this, Shi said

-It is really good that I finished the game in two games, as I didn’t save any energy giving it my best in every game.

We asked if Shi can defend his title in Birmingham. Shi smiled, and without a translator said